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[On this day- a fine day- long ago in his past, a young mage had been tasked with something rather important. And rather vague, as the details of this request were withheld. Yet he had been instructed to meet with a particular group of elders at a particular part of the city, within a particular building.
And far be it for that young mage to refuse such a request. Whether he had abided willingly or been asked to simply quiet any potential complaints and see was a detail long lost. But he had arrived. He had met with three elders, each of them polite and each of them charming in their own ways, and the point of this little meeting had been posited.
That this mage had a great deal of skill for one so young. A desire to grow and to improve where most, given such talents limited by relative age, would be tempted to openly brag or to think themselves above further instruction. That attitude would perhaps be something helpful to others. That perhaps he might put it to use on someone who- conversely to him- had not shown very much natural affinity at all.
And thus, Hythlodaeus had been introduced.
He's of a similar age to Hades, looking perhaps fifteen- as everyone else- attired in a plain black robe, his hood drawn upward. He varies just slightly by the presence of lilac hair curling at his jaw- unfortunately visible via the awkward virtue of being too short to tie behind his head, and too long to conceal.
...And oh, he appears to be a cheerful one. As he's introduced, he strides forward- offering his hand to shake immediately as he confirms his identity with his greeting. And immediately:]
Oh, thank goodness. I had been half concerned I'd be assigned to someone double my age. But I must apologize in advance for what you are to go through!
[The adults, by now, have started to disperse. And...]
May I know your name?
And far be it for that young mage to refuse such a request. Whether he had abided willingly or been asked to simply quiet any potential complaints and see was a detail long lost. But he had arrived. He had met with three elders, each of them polite and each of them charming in their own ways, and the point of this little meeting had been posited.
That this mage had a great deal of skill for one so young. A desire to grow and to improve where most, given such talents limited by relative age, would be tempted to openly brag or to think themselves above further instruction. That attitude would perhaps be something helpful to others. That perhaps he might put it to use on someone who- conversely to him- had not shown very much natural affinity at all.
And thus, Hythlodaeus had been introduced.
He's of a similar age to Hades, looking perhaps fifteen- as everyone else- attired in a plain black robe, his hood drawn upward. He varies just slightly by the presence of lilac hair curling at his jaw- unfortunately visible via the awkward virtue of being too short to tie behind his head, and too long to conceal.
...And oh, he appears to be a cheerful one. As he's introduced, he strides forward- offering his hand to shake immediately as he confirms his identity with his greeting. And immediately:]
Oh, thank goodness. I had been half concerned I'd be assigned to someone double my age. But I must apologize in advance for what you are to go through!
[The adults, by now, have started to disperse. And...]
May I know your name?
Edited 2022-02-04 00:56 (UTC)
[Ah, yes. He knows this story well. Amongst the many, many tales in which he has played an active role, this one stands out clearly - a bright satellite in a sea of dimmer stars. "Once upon a time..."]
[On that day a young mage was introduced to an unlikely friend, although he hardly knew it at the time. Masked and robed, his cowl raised to hide his snow white hair did he dutifully answer the summons, eager for what knowledge and potential the day might hold. Back then, the young mage was outwardly quiet, stoic, and preferred to work independently, and so did he listen in silence as the request was explained to him. And even as he listened, he felt his hopes ebb...]
[Him...? Play tutor to another youth who has shown no affinity at all for magic? This is the reason he was summoned?]
[A cursory glance has Hades frowning.]
[Although it's true that assisting their fellows has ever been an honorable task, a deeper look confirms his suspicions. He can sense nothing particularly remarkable about this boy. And further, does his elders' request not contradict their own observations? How is he to find opportunity to continue his own magical studies and improve himself when he must instead exhaust his time teaching someone else?]
[But, he can't very well refuse. Their betters have already turned to leave, no doubt to give them ample opportunity to get acquainted with one another. If he completes this task, and does so well, will he be afforded the resources he desires for self-improvement? He doesn't know. And further, he doesn't like it.]
[But his space is being encroached upon and he finds Hythlodaeus standing before him, looking no small amount relieved. And it's after a rather long pause that Hades finally accepts the proffered hand in a shake that's strongly lacking in enthusiasm.]
It's... Hades.
[He glances aside, sighing deeply through his nose.]
And is it not strange for you to apologize in advance? I've yet to teach you anything.
[On that day a young mage was introduced to an unlikely friend, although he hardly knew it at the time. Masked and robed, his cowl raised to hide his snow white hair did he dutifully answer the summons, eager for what knowledge and potential the day might hold. Back then, the young mage was outwardly quiet, stoic, and preferred to work independently, and so did he listen in silence as the request was explained to him. And even as he listened, he felt his hopes ebb...]
[Him...? Play tutor to another youth who has shown no affinity at all for magic? This is the reason he was summoned?]
[A cursory glance has Hades frowning.]
[Although it's true that assisting their fellows has ever been an honorable task, a deeper look confirms his suspicions. He can sense nothing particularly remarkable about this boy. And further, does his elders' request not contradict their own observations? How is he to find opportunity to continue his own magical studies and improve himself when he must instead exhaust his time teaching someone else?]
[But, he can't very well refuse. Their betters have already turned to leave, no doubt to give them ample opportunity to get acquainted with one another. If he completes this task, and does so well, will he be afforded the resources he desires for self-improvement? He doesn't know. And further, he doesn't like it.]
[But his space is being encroached upon and he finds Hythlodaeus standing before him, looking no small amount relieved. And it's after a rather long pause that Hades finally accepts the proffered hand in a shake that's strongly lacking in enthusiasm.]
It's... Hades.
[He glances aside, sighing deeply through his nose.]
And is it not strange for you to apologize in advance? I've yet to teach you anything.
Hades! Delighted. I am called Hythlodaeus. Though I imagine you'll have far worse names in mind with regard to me when this is over!
[A brief laugh accompanies that, and honestly? It's quiet enough, fortunately, to remain an adequate degree of solemnity in this meeting place. It hardly causes a glance, even. As the handshake concludes...]
Is it? I must admit, I am rather fond of getting these things out of the way. Quite simply? I'm all but beyond help. And offering my apologies every time I disappoint would no doubt end up quite a waste of crucial time.
[A smile plays at his lips then, his hooded, and masked head tilting just slightly.]
...I am also quite fond of being direct. So please do tell me, for I shall not be insulted- is there something on my face? You appear to be frowning quite a great deal.
[Yeah. He's going to examine himself. His mask appears to be on straight, his cowl isn't tucked in at any inappropriate areas... and it's clean...]
[A brief laugh accompanies that, and honestly? It's quiet enough, fortunately, to remain an adequate degree of solemnity in this meeting place. It hardly causes a glance, even. As the handshake concludes...]
Is it? I must admit, I am rather fond of getting these things out of the way. Quite simply? I'm all but beyond help. And offering my apologies every time I disappoint would no doubt end up quite a waste of crucial time.
[A smile plays at his lips then, his hooded, and masked head tilting just slightly.]
...I am also quite fond of being direct. So please do tell me, for I shall not be insulted- is there something on my face? You appear to be frowning quite a great deal.
[Yeah. He's going to examine himself. His mask appears to be on straight, his cowl isn't tucked in at any inappropriate areas... and it's clean...]
...
['Troublesome,' he thinks. Already has this Hythlodaeus decided that any attempts he makes at helping him will fail. For as much as he finds the long stream of chatter irritating, for some reason he finds that simple fact even more irksome. Who is he to decide what he will or won't think, what he can or cannot do? He may believe himself to be a lost cause, but he, Hades, is certainly nothing of the sort!]
[The commentary has him frowning even more deeply, and as Hythlodaeus inspects himself for abnormalities, Hades focuses again until he can make out the amicable color of his soul - it's a soft minty shade of green like one of the potions he completed the day before, and it shimmers pleasantly. It's a fine soul, there's nothing wrong with it, and by all rights there's nothing he can discern otherwise that should be impeding his ability to learn and use magicks.]
Will you not be quiet? I've no use for people who talk so much.
[That's him being direct.]
And besides, our elders would hardly have gone through the trouble if they thought there was no hope for you, so do watch what you say.
[And, more quietly for they are still in a public place:]
That being said, if it's all the same to you, and since you seem all but certain that my lessons will end in failure, I suggest we part ways here. I refuse to teach anyone who won't even put forth the necessary effort to succeed.
['Troublesome,' he thinks. Already has this Hythlodaeus decided that any attempts he makes at helping him will fail. For as much as he finds the long stream of chatter irritating, for some reason he finds that simple fact even more irksome. Who is he to decide what he will or won't think, what he can or cannot do? He may believe himself to be a lost cause, but he, Hades, is certainly nothing of the sort!]
[The commentary has him frowning even more deeply, and as Hythlodaeus inspects himself for abnormalities, Hades focuses again until he can make out the amicable color of his soul - it's a soft minty shade of green like one of the potions he completed the day before, and it shimmers pleasantly. It's a fine soul, there's nothing wrong with it, and by all rights there's nothing he can discern otherwise that should be impeding his ability to learn and use magicks.]
Will you not be quiet? I've no use for people who talk so much.
[That's him being direct.]
And besides, our elders would hardly have gone through the trouble if they thought there was no hope for you, so do watch what you say.
[And, more quietly for they are still in a public place:]
That being said, if it's all the same to you, and since you seem all but certain that my lessons will end in failure, I suggest we part ways here. I refuse to teach anyone who won't even put forth the necessary effort to succeed.
Is that so...
[Ah- now he understands what's going on. This youth considers himself too good for this task- and likely considers it a complete waste of his time. He knows, he's sure, that Hades must know that co-operation leads to the most momentous of discoveries. That support facilitates the most brilliant of creations. No man is an island, within their society most of all.
And thus, the reason for their pairing is clear to him now. His lack of anything in a magical regard makes him an abnormality. Hades' attitude, despite his (already storied) skill, makes him one as well. A brief smile plays at his lips- and he nods his head good-naturedly.
He's quite prepared to allow the mistruth about effort and his lack thereof, to slide. For what does something like that matter? This person has clearly decided they want no part of this. Therefore, refuting it is pointless.]
...Oh, how saddening! It would be nothing, I suppose, to ask to be paired with another person. For me, another failing is nothing new. I'm quite certain our elders have an extensive list of backups.
[He turns then, locating his things. One single-handed wand Hades might recognize as beginner's tool- barely even proficient at channeling aether but designed as such for beginners are oft to hurt themselves. And as he moves toward them...]
I imagine this would be your first? Failing, that is. [He half-turns then, this pathetic little wand in hand, a small leather bag brought over his shoulder.] ...Not to worry. I suppose even the best of us have unsightly blemishes somewhere.
[Oh, he knows what he's doing.]
...Aside from master Lahabrea, of course! Would that I could trouble one of his Words for the briefest moment of their time.
[Ah- now he understands what's going on. This youth considers himself too good for this task- and likely considers it a complete waste of his time. He knows, he's sure, that Hades must know that co-operation leads to the most momentous of discoveries. That support facilitates the most brilliant of creations. No man is an island, within their society most of all.
And thus, the reason for their pairing is clear to him now. His lack of anything in a magical regard makes him an abnormality. Hades' attitude, despite his (already storied) skill, makes him one as well. A brief smile plays at his lips- and he nods his head good-naturedly.
He's quite prepared to allow the mistruth about effort and his lack thereof, to slide. For what does something like that matter? This person has clearly decided they want no part of this. Therefore, refuting it is pointless.]
...Oh, how saddening! It would be nothing, I suppose, to ask to be paired with another person. For me, another failing is nothing new. I'm quite certain our elders have an extensive list of backups.
[He turns then, locating his things. One single-handed wand Hades might recognize as beginner's tool- barely even proficient at channeling aether but designed as such for beginners are oft to hurt themselves. And as he moves toward them...]
I imagine this would be your first? Failing, that is. [He half-turns then, this pathetic little wand in hand, a small leather bag brought over his shoulder.] ...Not to worry. I suppose even the best of us have unsightly blemishes somewhere.
[Oh, he knows what he's doing.]
...Aside from master Lahabrea, of course! Would that I could trouble one of his Words for the briefest moment of their time.
[Of course he knows it. He's well aware of the underlying principles of their society, and that working together is in itself perhaps the most good that can be done, and yet... So too does he have his reasons for preferring to study and discover alone, but that is another story for another time.]
[Even still, as Hythlodaeus prattles on, so does Hades straighten into stunned silence, his mouth gaping open just enough to show the whites of his teeth.]
["Nothing"? An "extensive list"?]
[Oh, he can feel his temper flaring! Hades' fists clench at his sides, his brow creasing in irritation, not yet aware that he is being played. Well, of course he is nowhere near the level of an esteemed member of the Convocation! Yet that does not under any circumstances mean he's willing to accept failure and disgrace for something he has not even lifted a finger towards pursuing. And further, if it seems he rejected this request altogether, suppose he is never called upon again! Before Hythlodaeus can take another step away, Hades lurches forward, hoping to cut him off before the elders catch wind of their conversation.]
Now, hold on! I never said that I couldn't teach you.
[He nods his head at the woefully ill-suited wand, hardly sufficient to channel even the most basic of spells.]
Besides, the Words of Lahabrea are in no position to be troubled with such a request. You and I both know this. If our betters think me the one who ought to teach you, then far be it for me to refuse them.
[But that doesn't mean he has to like it.]
Furthermore, if you can at least promise to take this seriously, I have no doubt that you'd all see marked progress even before nightfall. It may be nothing to you, but I do not fail.
[Even still, as Hythlodaeus prattles on, so does Hades straighten into stunned silence, his mouth gaping open just enough to show the whites of his teeth.]
["Nothing"? An "extensive list"?]
[Oh, he can feel his temper flaring! Hades' fists clench at his sides, his brow creasing in irritation, not yet aware that he is being played. Well, of course he is nowhere near the level of an esteemed member of the Convocation! Yet that does not under any circumstances mean he's willing to accept failure and disgrace for something he has not even lifted a finger towards pursuing. And further, if it seems he rejected this request altogether, suppose he is never called upon again! Before Hythlodaeus can take another step away, Hades lurches forward, hoping to cut him off before the elders catch wind of their conversation.]
Now, hold on! I never said that I couldn't teach you.
[He nods his head at the woefully ill-suited wand, hardly sufficient to channel even the most basic of spells.]
Besides, the Words of Lahabrea are in no position to be troubled with such a request. You and I both know this. If our betters think me the one who ought to teach you, then far be it for me to refuse them.
[But that doesn't mean he has to like it.]
Furthermore, if you can at least promise to take this seriously, I have no doubt that you'd all see marked progress even before nightfall. It may be nothing to you, but I do not fail.
[Hook, line and sinker. The smile plays on his lips as he hears Hades close the space between them with a great deal of haste, but his expression turns neutral as he fully regards him.]
Mm, yes. I have no doubt someone like you could teach most people quite a great deal... were you so inclined. I would imagine there would be little that's beyond you, in all truth.
[His soul says so, most certainly. Abd that's far more of a reliable guide than mere words or even actions. And as he turns this little wand over in his hands a few times...]
Perhaps we've miscommunicated. I can assure you in all solemnity, I do not intend to waste either your time or mine. The issue with me is hardly commitment. So. Now we know a little more of each other's motivations...
[A little half-turn of that wand again.]
Would you like to try?
Mm, yes. I have no doubt someone like you could teach most people quite a great deal... were you so inclined. I would imagine there would be little that's beyond you, in all truth.
[His soul says so, most certainly. Abd that's far more of a reliable guide than mere words or even actions. And as he turns this little wand over in his hands a few times...]
Perhaps we've miscommunicated. I can assure you in all solemnity, I do not intend to waste either your time or mine. The issue with me is hardly commitment. So. Now we know a little more of each other's motivations...
[A little half-turn of that wand again.]
Would you like to try?
[At this, Hades sighs, his shoulders slumping dramatically. This is hardly about "like to"! Now it's as if he is left with no choice at all but to accept. How did things ever turn out this way? His frown hasn't budged, but he shifts his weight where he stands, as if preparing to be here awhile yet.]
Are you so convinced that you're unlike most people, that you're "beyond help", as you claim? Or are you merely seeking to annoy me?
[He honestly cannot tell in this moment, but it does seem as if the other youth is trying to reach an agreement with him at the very least. He doesn't answer, but he exhales finally, and he continues:]
Be that as it may, the most obvious answer would be to figure out why it is that you're having so much difficulty with magicks in the first place. Why don't you put that useless wand down and begin by explaining your past experiences?
Are you so convinced that you're unlike most people, that you're "beyond help", as you claim? Or are you merely seeking to annoy me?
[He honestly cannot tell in this moment, but it does seem as if the other youth is trying to reach an agreement with him at the very least. He doesn't answer, but he exhales finally, and he continues:]
Be that as it may, the most obvious answer would be to figure out why it is that you're having so much difficulty with magicks in the first place. Why don't you put that useless wand down and begin by explaining your past experiences?
Oh, I'm quite convinced. And I hardly know you well enough to get anything out of merely annoying you!
[Really, he wants to laugh at that. Was this boy normally so suspicious? Did he truly believe that all of this was a ruse? That even the elders were in on it? He doesn't know. And really. He says he would get nothing out of irritating him, but if he were to be completely honest, he would admit it was somewhat (strangely) entertaining to see such baseless dramatics, as they're so very different from every other person that he'd met.
And at his request, the wand, and his shoulder bag, goes away and on the ground.]
...Of course. Though I'm quite sorry to say it is a rather short story. You are aware, I presume, of most needing little instruction to begin manifesting their capacity with regard to aether manipulation. Some rare few need none, and begin the manipulation of basic elements before they can even speak. ...In my case, It is quite the opposite.
I have no issue with creation magick, I'll have you know! Yet other forms of aether manipulation, such as elemental magicks, healing magicks, not to mention illusion, transformation, and bizarrely enough the creation of familiars are all things most find simple enough to begin, yet their affinity with such comes from practice and learning to build upon their initial foundation.
[A rueful smile comes, and his hand makes its way to rest on his own opposite shoulder.]
... Yet they are quite lost to me. I have not the foundation to begin benefitting from either practice nor learning. I've established, through both means, the how. but it is the doing that comes up painfully short.
[Really, he wants to laugh at that. Was this boy normally so suspicious? Did he truly believe that all of this was a ruse? That even the elders were in on it? He doesn't know. And really. He says he would get nothing out of irritating him, but if he were to be completely honest, he would admit it was somewhat (strangely) entertaining to see such baseless dramatics, as they're so very different from every other person that he'd met.
And at his request, the wand, and his shoulder bag, goes away and on the ground.]
...Of course. Though I'm quite sorry to say it is a rather short story. You are aware, I presume, of most needing little instruction to begin manifesting their capacity with regard to aether manipulation. Some rare few need none, and begin the manipulation of basic elements before they can even speak. ...In my case, It is quite the opposite.
I have no issue with creation magick, I'll have you know! Yet other forms of aether manipulation, such as elemental magicks, healing magicks, not to mention illusion, transformation, and bizarrely enough the creation of familiars are all things most find simple enough to begin, yet their affinity with such comes from practice and learning to build upon their initial foundation.
[A rueful smile comes, and his hand makes its way to rest on his own opposite shoulder.]
... Yet they are quite lost to me. I have not the foundation to begin benefitting from either practice nor learning. I've established, through both means, the how. but it is the doing that comes up painfully short.
I assure you that a brief account will suffice.
[So says Hades, but it's at this point that a few interesting occurrences begin to happen. For one, Hades comes to a realization: this boy is a chatterbox, yes, but he's far from dim and does indeed have a solid understanding of magical theory. Therefore, this cause is not as lost as he has been led to believe.]
[Secondly: he thinks that, perhaps, aware of his own limitations, this Hythlodaeus truly does want to succeed, even despite all of his preemptive apologies.]
[Thirdly: and this last is how Hades outwardly reacts. For the first time in the last five minutes, Hades appears to be truly listening to what Hythlodaeus has to say, and not seeming as if he'd rather be somewhere else altogether. He raises a finger to his chin in honest consideration.]
...all of which suggests that the issue lies in your atunement, or rather, your lack thereof. No amount of study will aid you if you lack the context of knowing exactly how doing these things correctly is supposed to feel.
[And thus does he make a decision.]
Come on, then. Let us leave this place. You can show me outside how you work your creation magicks, and then you'll try a simple fire spell. It will be a small matter to determine where you're going wrong if I see it for myself.
[So says Hades, but it's at this point that a few interesting occurrences begin to happen. For one, Hades comes to a realization: this boy is a chatterbox, yes, but he's far from dim and does indeed have a solid understanding of magical theory. Therefore, this cause is not as lost as he has been led to believe.]
[Secondly: he thinks that, perhaps, aware of his own limitations, this Hythlodaeus truly does want to succeed, even despite all of his preemptive apologies.]
[Thirdly: and this last is how Hades outwardly reacts. For the first time in the last five minutes, Hades appears to be truly listening to what Hythlodaeus has to say, and not seeming as if he'd rather be somewhere else altogether. He raises a finger to his chin in honest consideration.]
...all of which suggests that the issue lies in your atunement, or rather, your lack thereof. No amount of study will aid you if you lack the context of knowing exactly how doing these things correctly is supposed to feel.
[And thus does he make a decision.]
Come on, then. Let us leave this place. You can show me outside how you work your creation magicks, and then you'll try a simple fire spell. It will be a small matter to determine where you're going wrong if I see it for myself.
Precisely! ...Or at least, possibly. That is my view on the matter, anyway.
[Who knows? He might be wrong.
He'll admit though, it is a relief to have his suspicion verified by someone that is said, at least, to have more than a fair idea of what they're doing. Should this other boy, this Hades, be right- then it leads to the question of what could be possibly done to raise this attunement. And with that, he honestly has no idea of what is either practical or possible.
But. He moves, again, to pick up his things. And with a faint smile:]
Yes, let's.
[Upon arrival at their destination, some (mercifully) deserted little square of outdoor land within the complex's boundaries, he sets himself to work. ...Or rather, he glances around considering what to make his work.
Creation magick, of course, isn't something to be freely undertaken when it came to new things. So. Replication should suffice. If he were to recreate a small facet of something already created, there should be little problem. So. He spies an overhanging wysteria, crowned with verdant green leaves, fading downward to purple blossoms, fading further, and further, to white.
That should do.
He closes his eyes.
He extends a single hand.
Aether moves about him, around him, and he concentrates. It flows around him freely- settling into the palm of his hand and settling into form. ...Some adjustments follow. It appears to reform, and reform a few times, and finally...
A purple blossom rests in his hand. And it is given to Hades, whether he accepts it or not.]
There. Now shall I disappoint you?
[Who knows? He might be wrong.
He'll admit though, it is a relief to have his suspicion verified by someone that is said, at least, to have more than a fair idea of what they're doing. Should this other boy, this Hades, be right- then it leads to the question of what could be possibly done to raise this attunement. And with that, he honestly has no idea of what is either practical or possible.
But. He moves, again, to pick up his things. And with a faint smile:]
Yes, let's.
[Upon arrival at their destination, some (mercifully) deserted little square of outdoor land within the complex's boundaries, he sets himself to work. ...Or rather, he glances around considering what to make his work.
Creation magick, of course, isn't something to be freely undertaken when it came to new things. So. Replication should suffice. If he were to recreate a small facet of something already created, there should be little problem. So. He spies an overhanging wysteria, crowned with verdant green leaves, fading downward to purple blossoms, fading further, and further, to white.
That should do.
He closes his eyes.
He extends a single hand.
Aether moves about him, around him, and he concentrates. It flows around him freely- settling into the palm of his hand and settling into form. ...Some adjustments follow. It appears to reform, and reform a few times, and finally...
A purple blossom rests in his hand. And it is given to Hades, whether he accepts it or not.]
There. Now shall I disappoint you?
[Hades has seen more than enough by watching alone, but he grudgingly accepts the wisteria flower. His hold on it is careful and light as he begins turning it over in his hand to confirm that it is indeed whole and solid and also not leaking aether everywhere. It would seem that the magick was all tied together neatly enough in the end, even if the shaping process was drawn out a little long. That, he suspects, will improve with practice.]
[He sees nothing wrong here, and so he folds his arms, careful not to crush the flower in the process.]
Fine. Cast Fire on me.
[And before Hythlodaeus can protest too much, he adds:]
It will be far easier to tell what you're doing wrong if you direct your aether towards me, that's all. Don't look so stunned - you will do me no harm, so cast it as you always have.
[He sees nothing wrong here, and so he folds his arms, careful not to crush the flower in the process.]
Fine. Cast Fire on me.
[And before Hythlodaeus can protest too much, he adds:]
It will be far easier to tell what you're doing wrong if you direct your aether towards me, that's all. Don't look so stunned - you will do me no harm, so cast it as you always have.
[Perhaps the reforming being overlong was due to inexperience. Or perhaps it's simply because he sees more of that little strand of blooms than others do. Where most see an object and the aether belonging to it, he sees something else quite different indeed. Perhaps the reforming and reforming before deciding was him exploring potential- of different things affecting the different possibilities of what such a thing could become- be it a storm some weeks ago, a lack of rain, too much rain, or anything inbetween before he settles, simply, on what is.
Either way, he's saying nothing on it. Instead, he's looking dumbfounded.]
Y-you are quite certain?!
[Fire?! Were he to score some fluke and do it right, then-
Ah, but the other boy has already refuted anything he would have said. So, with a small exhale, and a few steps away...]
...As you say.
And... Should this cause you discomfort, I can only apologize.
[This is markedly different from creation magick. Instead, this time, his aether seems to not become so apparent. It does not flow, and it does not settle. Instead, it seems agitated- spluttering along and barely changing.
...He cannot believe he is to do this.
Silently, he raises his hand, some fire-aspected (for his method is correct) aether forming at the center of his palm. He exhales, flicking his wrist to disperse it and-
-and.
-and?
Hades might feel something akin to teleporting into an (admittedly, hot!) climate. There's a rush of warm air that hits him. Perhaps he may feel the fabric of his cowl, his hood, curling a little at the sudden rush of heat.
Yet that is all. He does not burn. There's scarcely an ember in the folds of his robe.
Hythlodaeus, expression (and screwed shut eyes) concealed by his mask, takes a few immediate steps forward.]
Thank goodness-
[It didn't work. He's grateful! But he's also somewhat ashamed. Mostly grateful.]
Either way, he's saying nothing on it. Instead, he's looking dumbfounded.]
Y-you are quite certain?!
[Fire?! Were he to score some fluke and do it right, then-
Ah, but the other boy has already refuted anything he would have said. So, with a small exhale, and a few steps away...]
...As you say.
And... Should this cause you discomfort, I can only apologize.
[This is markedly different from creation magick. Instead, this time, his aether seems to not become so apparent. It does not flow, and it does not settle. Instead, it seems agitated- spluttering along and barely changing.
...He cannot believe he is to do this.
Silently, he raises his hand, some fire-aspected (for his method is correct) aether forming at the center of his palm. He exhales, flicking his wrist to disperse it and-
-and.
-and?
Hades might feel something akin to teleporting into an (admittedly, hot!) climate. There's a rush of warm air that hits him. Perhaps he may feel the fabric of his cowl, his hood, curling a little at the sudden rush of heat.
Yet that is all. He does not burn. There's scarcely an ember in the folds of his robe.
Hythlodaeus, expression (and screwed shut eyes) concealed by his mask, takes a few immediate steps forward.]
Thank goodness-
[It didn't work. He's grateful! But he's also somewhat ashamed. Mostly grateful.]
[Hades doesn't seem the least bit uncertain about it. Of course, the more complex and much truer reason behind Hythlodaeus' unhurried process has yet to cross his mind. He has no awareness about this youth's impeccable sight, and with the way he continues to drive home the idea that he is really, quite lacking in many respects, well... Who can blame him, honestly, for overlooking the truth?]
[So, yes. Hades stands there as unflappably as one might imagine while the aether is channeled (poorly) and redirected (also poorly). Never has he seen aether react in such an agitated manner whilst manipulating it into such a basic spell. Oh, he can tell even from here that Hythlodaeus has the general idea of it, but it's wrong. Completely wrong. It's as if something's blocking the fire-aspected aether from truly reacting to the boy's summons, like a blocked passageway, or a tunnel that's been cut off. And hardly does he lift a finger to counteract said aether as it rushes over him in a blast of (mostly harmless) heat and steam, enough to wrinkle the fabric of his robes ever slightly, but little more than that. A few strands of snowy white hair are caught in the disaster, and those do drift down to the ground as overheated and mildly melted fibers.]
"Thank goodness", he says! And what in the name of the star was that supposed to be?
[He shakes his head as if to clear it of what he just witnessed and points a finger at him.]
If you're going to apologize, do so to the aether you just wasted, not to me.
[So, yes. Hades stands there as unflappably as one might imagine while the aether is channeled (poorly) and redirected (also poorly). Never has he seen aether react in such an agitated manner whilst manipulating it into such a basic spell. Oh, he can tell even from here that Hythlodaeus has the general idea of it, but it's wrong. Completely wrong. It's as if something's blocking the fire-aspected aether from truly reacting to the boy's summons, like a blocked passageway, or a tunnel that's been cut off. And hardly does he lift a finger to counteract said aether as it rushes over him in a blast of (mostly harmless) heat and steam, enough to wrinkle the fabric of his robes ever slightly, but little more than that. A few strands of snowy white hair are caught in the disaster, and those do drift down to the ground as overheated and mildly melted fibers.]
"Thank goodness", he says! And what in the name of the star was that supposed to be?
[He shakes his head as if to clear it of what he just witnessed and points a finger at him.]
If you're going to apologize, do so to the aether you just wasted, not to me.
Edited 2022-02-09 15:01 (UTC)
[How was bringing pain to you a better use? He wants to respond, and oh, it almost leaves his lips. It's very close- but he bites his tongue. His gaze does not drop though. If not outwardly angered, most would show shame. Yet he does not show anything of the sort. His gaze moves away, briefly, and returns.
...And.]
I must confess, it went far better than I had thought it would. In truth, I had half-expected you to suffer the same fate as my last target, of being soaked in water.
[Is he being serious?!]
...And.]
I must confess, it went far better than I had thought it would. In truth, I had half-expected you to suffer the same fate as my last target, of being soaked in water.
[Is he being serious?!]
Edited 2022-02-09 18:55 (UTC)
[Thank goodness for that one, at the very least. There's little less pleasant to Hades than getting caught in a downpour or being forced to swim and then having to drag himself along in heavy, cold, utterly soggy robes all the way back to his living quarters.]
[That being said, the next words that reach his ears leave him looking entirely baffled.]
Do tell me you're not being serious. How could you possibly manage such a thing when the aether you're gathering is fire-aspected?
[A part of him does want to help, actually. As a mage, he would see that anyone else wanting to pursue the art further has access to the resources and answers they require for learning and improvement. On the other hand, however... Oh, he can see a headache coming from a malm away.]
[That being said, the next words that reach his ears leave him looking entirely baffled.]
Do tell me you're not being serious. How could you possibly manage such a thing when the aether you're gathering is fire-aspected?
[A part of him does want to help, actually. As a mage, he would see that anyone else wanting to pursue the art further has access to the resources and answers they require for learning and improvement. On the other hand, however... Oh, he can see a headache coming from a malm away.]
[Sadly, he might be serious.
...Might he? Really?
His face betrays him as he answers, by such a terrible little smile appearing at the very corners of his mouth.]
Well. It was warm water, at the very least! ...Nothing short of scalding, in fact. Why- the entire ordeal made me quite glad the dummies of which we usually practice upon do not have skin! For it would have been-
[Yeah, he can't. His smile has spread and spread, and honestly, he knows not what causes it. Is it the look of sheer astonishment on the other boy's face, the way his voice tilts upward as if he truly cannot believe that anything could twist and break the laws of magic to such an extent...
It's too much. It's far, far, far too much. And he laughs!
He laughs, and he laughs, into a hand. And with his eyes practically shining-]
Surely you would not believe-
[Oh, he's off again.]
...Might he? Really?
His face betrays him as he answers, by such a terrible little smile appearing at the very corners of his mouth.]
Well. It was warm water, at the very least! ...Nothing short of scalding, in fact. Why- the entire ordeal made me quite glad the dummies of which we usually practice upon do not have skin! For it would have been-
[Yeah, he can't. His smile has spread and spread, and honestly, he knows not what causes it. Is it the look of sheer astonishment on the other boy's face, the way his voice tilts upward as if he truly cannot believe that anything could twist and break the laws of magic to such an extent...
It's too much. It's far, far, far too much. And he laughs!
He laughs, and he laughs, into a hand. And with his eyes practically shining-]
Surely you would not believe-
[Oh, he's off again.]
[And that, that right there, is what finally does it. Hades snaps. And if his eyes were visible through the white of his mask, they'd be positively withering - though with the way his teeth grind together beneath it, they should more than get across the level of his outrage and outright irritation at being laughed at so openly.]
Enough! I will suffer this no longer. Trouble another, if you must, but I haven't the time nor the patience for this... this nonsense!
[He did not come here to be made a joke of, for now he is all but certain that he is being toyed with. Rigidly, Hades straightens and turns on his heel, and with a single wave of his free hand does he quiet and disperse the few stray threads of aether which had wanted to (and yet somehow could not) form themselves properly into a ball of flame. In his fury, he has all but forgotten he yet clutches the little wisteria stem - tightly, oh so tightly, as he marches away.]
[Cooperation can never end well, of this he is all too sure. It still burns fresh: the humiliation of his latest spell. Oh, it was and is such a magnificent thing! But in the hands of a less adept classmate with whom it was freely shared, it had proven utterly disastrous, leaving Hades to watch in guilt and utter shame as three of his fellows were ushered away for treatment. And that, only one such tale; he has an entire bookshelf filled with them.]
[Indeed, he was foolish to ever answer the summons.]
Enough! I will suffer this no longer. Trouble another, if you must, but I haven't the time nor the patience for this... this nonsense!
[He did not come here to be made a joke of, for now he is all but certain that he is being toyed with. Rigidly, Hades straightens and turns on his heel, and with a single wave of his free hand does he quiet and disperse the few stray threads of aether which had wanted to (and yet somehow could not) form themselves properly into a ball of flame. In his fury, he has all but forgotten he yet clutches the little wisteria stem - tightly, oh so tightly, as he marches away.]
[Cooperation can never end well, of this he is all too sure. It still burns fresh: the humiliation of his latest spell. Oh, it was and is such a magnificent thing! But in the hands of a less adept classmate with whom it was freely shared, it had proven utterly disastrous, leaving Hades to watch in guilt and utter shame as three of his fellows were ushered away for treatment. And that, only one such tale; he has an entire bookshelf filled with them.]
[Indeed, he was foolish to ever answer the summons.]
[Oh, dear. His laughter- regrettably- is cut short in but an instant. He straightens himself as the other boy appears to turn on his heels and storm off- his expression underneath his mask certainly turning from one of mirth to faint horror.
He extends an arm, hoping to catch his sleeve, his elbow- anything really- but it falls woefully short.]
Oh, don't be like that! I only intended to-
[Hythlodaeus was many things, already. He was an impish sort, yes. One that was whimsical, even prone to find unbidden humour in situations most would not- but he was not insensitive. ...Or at least, he had hoped he was not. In a situation like this- where someone else would only see vehement, unchecked anger, his gift allows him to spy no small amount of hurt.
And...
He would hope he was not to be a person who caused hurt.
So it is for that reason he starts to pursue the other at a brisk pace- no, practically running- to keep up with such a determined march. And-]
Please, wait!
[What he sees in the distance, just beyond Hades, causes him to stop. Is that two elders? And are they running toward them?]
Hades...?
[What is even going on?]
He extends an arm, hoping to catch his sleeve, his elbow- anything really- but it falls woefully short.]
Oh, don't be like that! I only intended to-
[Hythlodaeus was many things, already. He was an impish sort, yes. One that was whimsical, even prone to find unbidden humour in situations most would not- but he was not insensitive. ...Or at least, he had hoped he was not. In a situation like this- where someone else would only see vehement, unchecked anger, his gift allows him to spy no small amount of hurt.
And...
He would hope he was not to be a person who caused hurt.
So it is for that reason he starts to pursue the other at a brisk pace- no, practically running- to keep up with such a determined march. And-]
Please, wait!
[What he sees in the distance, just beyond Hades, causes him to stop. Is that two elders? And are they running toward them?]
Hades...?
[What is even going on?]
['Intended to!' comes the silent scoff. But neither does Hades turn back nor wait, nor also does he see any reason to be anything other than the way he is. Indeed, Hythlodaeus' sight serves him well, for there's no small amount of anger, and as well, no small amount of hurt. Distrust. Aversion. And beneath it all, something akin to disappointment.]
[Hades' march never once slows. Not, at least, until he becomes aware of two elders hurrying swiftly towards them. It's at this point that he lifts his head, his determined frown momentarily subsiding as he takes a few hurried steps in their direction.]
Forgive me, but is something amiss?
[Perfectly respectful, then. And to his inquiry do the elders explain in haste that something is indeed very wrong. That they would do well to leave the area. A group of creatures have escaped, they say, quite dangerous ones formed before a proper review. Those creations are now wreaking no small amount of havoc, and have yet to be contained. In fact, the Convocation itself has been notified, and even now authorities have been sent for to help bring the situation under control.]
...Creatures, you say? Here?
[Hades' attention shifts beyond them to where he can hear distant shouts and the boom of magicks colliding with the physical. He squints, trying to see further, and only barely manages it before the elders advise them again, firmly, to leave this place and hurry along their way.]
[Well, then. The sensible side of Hades would follow their counsel, but. Rather than retreading his course, Hades makes a choice and hastens onwards towards the source of the chaos.]
[Hades' march never once slows. Not, at least, until he becomes aware of two elders hurrying swiftly towards them. It's at this point that he lifts his head, his determined frown momentarily subsiding as he takes a few hurried steps in their direction.]
Forgive me, but is something amiss?
[Perfectly respectful, then. And to his inquiry do the elders explain in haste that something is indeed very wrong. That they would do well to leave the area. A group of creatures have escaped, they say, quite dangerous ones formed before a proper review. Those creations are now wreaking no small amount of havoc, and have yet to be contained. In fact, the Convocation itself has been notified, and even now authorities have been sent for to help bring the situation under control.]
...Creatures, you say? Here?
[Hades' attention shifts beyond them to where he can hear distant shouts and the boom of magicks colliding with the physical. He squints, trying to see further, and only barely manages it before the elders advise them again, firmly, to leave this place and hurry along their way.]
[Well, then. The sensible side of Hades would follow their counsel, but. Rather than retreading his course, Hades makes a choice and hastens onwards towards the source of the chaos.]
[As Hades slows and eventually stops, only to speak to the elders and to completely ignore his plea, Hythlodaeus is reduced to lingering alongside in silence. His expression underneath his mask is suitably troubled. Yet, it should be.
To think that something, let alone a group of things, even could get out of their containment units within Akademia Anyder... The thought alone is harrowing. And as the elders repeat their warning before hurrying along on their way, the fact Hades appears to be near bolting toward the source of such danger is galling.]
Wait!
[By the time he's caught up, it is when Hades is busying himself with undoing the magick the elders from earlier had placed upon the entrance in order to deal it proper. And oh- he's well and truly out of breath, doubled- his palms pressing into his knees, arms straightened, to try and force air into his lungs.
And-]
You cannot be serious. You heard them, did you not? The matter is in hand, and we are not allowed entry even when all is well!
[He straightens up, having caught his breath, but alas. There's a distinctive click- and the magickal sigil shimmers once, then fades.]
What exactly do you intend to do in there?!
To think that something, let alone a group of things, even could get out of their containment units within Akademia Anyder... The thought alone is harrowing. And as the elders repeat their warning before hurrying along on their way, the fact Hades appears to be near bolting toward the source of such danger is galling.]
Wait!
[By the time he's caught up, it is when Hades is busying himself with undoing the magick the elders from earlier had placed upon the entrance in order to deal it proper. And oh- he's well and truly out of breath, doubled- his palms pressing into his knees, arms straightened, to try and force air into his lungs.
And-]
You cannot be serious. You heard them, did you not? The matter is in hand, and we are not allowed entry even when all is well!
[He straightens up, having caught his breath, but alas. There's a distinctive click- and the magickal sigil shimmers once, then fades.]
What exactly do you intend to do in there?!
[Hades does not wait. The sigil is a simple thing, requiring only the appropriate alignment of elements channeled into the patterns that appear to render it inactive. Easy. And the moment he hears the click that deactivates it, Hades summons a rod into his hand.]
[Oh, except it would seem he still has company - although he isn't entirely sure why. Hades does feel a slight pang of guilt that the other boy is winded from following him, but then, that was entirely his own decision, now, wasn't it? Only his eyes turn to regard him, and then he's placing a hand upon the door. He doesn't seem the least bit afraid, even though he certainly understands the gravity of the situation.]
Exactly as you suspect. I'm going to subdue the creatures until more help can arrive.
[Yet, before he goes any further, he adds:]
You should leave. Make sure the door shuts behind me completely, and then get as far away as you can. This is no place for someone who can't even defend himself, and I am through with being your nursemaid. Have the elders assign someone else to teach you.
[It won't even matter if he cannot manage it, not when he can prove himself in another, far more meaningful, way.]
[Oh, except it would seem he still has company - although he isn't entirely sure why. Hades does feel a slight pang of guilt that the other boy is winded from following him, but then, that was entirely his own decision, now, wasn't it? Only his eyes turn to regard him, and then he's placing a hand upon the door. He doesn't seem the least bit afraid, even though he certainly understands the gravity of the situation.]
Exactly as you suspect. I'm going to subdue the creatures until more help can arrive.
[Yet, before he goes any further, he adds:]
You should leave. Make sure the door shuts behind me completely, and then get as far away as you can. This is no place for someone who can't even defend himself, and I am through with being your nursemaid. Have the elders assign someone else to teach you.
[It won't even matter if he cannot manage it, not when he can prove himself in another, far more meaningful, way.]
[He can't. He truly can't! even if he were to make it past the threshold, who knew what would even be in there? They had not been informed of the nature of the escaped creatures, nor the affinities, the flaws... Nor even denomination. How many of them there truly were remained to be seen! Going in, even for a talented (if blockheaded) mage, was tantamount to suicide.
He stands, rigid after he straightens, his gaze turning to the tiled floor they stand upon. ...There was no way this Hades would permit him entry alongside him. But he simply couldn't go alone. So...]
...As you say.
[No, he's not just going to leave him. That, while not apparent, is something decided then and there. He moves to the door, reaching out unto it to hold it open. And perhaps some aether from him (quietly, and without any signal) flows unto it. What element his contribution was... really, he hardly knew.
It hardly mattered.
If Hades undid the ward the elders had placed to seal it by simply doing the opposite of the elemental patterns holding it closed... then his own little contribution would ensure that when Hades undoes his spell and the door should lock again, it would not. For the balance, with his input, had been well and truly upset.
...Hopefully.
He stands by the door as if to hold it open, and when Hades passes through, his voice is low.]
Have care.
[Should he pass through and go on his way, Hades would hear the door close. Hythlodaeus remains on the other side, even when he sees the other's magick fade from the thing... and he counts.
One minute, two...
Silently, he opens the door.
And he slips inside.]
He stands, rigid after he straightens, his gaze turning to the tiled floor they stand upon. ...There was no way this Hades would permit him entry alongside him. But he simply couldn't go alone. So...]
...As you say.
[No, he's not just going to leave him. That, while not apparent, is something decided then and there. He moves to the door, reaching out unto it to hold it open. And perhaps some aether from him (quietly, and without any signal) flows unto it. What element his contribution was... really, he hardly knew.
It hardly mattered.
If Hades undid the ward the elders had placed to seal it by simply doing the opposite of the elemental patterns holding it closed... then his own little contribution would ensure that when Hades undoes his spell and the door should lock again, it would not. For the balance, with his input, had been well and truly upset.
...Hopefully.
He stands by the door as if to hold it open, and when Hades passes through, his voice is low.]
Have care.
[Should he pass through and go on his way, Hades would hear the door close. Hythlodaeus remains on the other side, even when he sees the other's magick fade from the thing... and he counts.
One minute, two...
Silently, he opens the door.
And he slips inside.]
[Well, now, finally the other boy is being sensible and obedient! Hades can only hope he understands the seriousness of the situation, and that it is what is prompting him to cooperate.]
[And indeed, he wastes no time passing through the door which is held open for him, casting one last glance over his shoulder.]
...Right. And the same to you.
[No condescension hides within those words. In fact, they hold the same level of respectability with which Hades addressed the elders. But he can't afford to drag his heels, and so he hurries along down the wide, dim corridor.]
[After a moment of thought he focuses, and he imagines. The aether gathers around him slow but sure, curling into the form of a winged shade, solid enough but generally nondescript. He hasn't the time nor the experience yet to conjure up anything overly complex, but even this should serve him well in an effort to scout ahead and gain more information about the creatures he must face. And so he beckons it go as he follows behind, scanning his surroundings for anything amiss. The air itself seems troubled, tense with vibrations. There's something distinctly wrong about it, yet he cannot pinpoint the exact source of it all.]
Strange...
[His voice is no louder than a whisper, but his steps slow and he looks a bit deeper, reaching out to the very edges of his perception where something, something flickers at the outermost edge.]
[Wait. Behind...?]
[He whirls then, taking on a defensive stance as he raises his weapon aloft, already summoning forth the aether he requires for his spell. Only then does he hear a monstrous rumble from an entirely different direction.]
--What?!
[And indeed, he wastes no time passing through the door which is held open for him, casting one last glance over his shoulder.]
...Right. And the same to you.
[No condescension hides within those words. In fact, they hold the same level of respectability with which Hades addressed the elders. But he can't afford to drag his heels, and so he hurries along down the wide, dim corridor.]
[After a moment of thought he focuses, and he imagines. The aether gathers around him slow but sure, curling into the form of a winged shade, solid enough but generally nondescript. He hasn't the time nor the experience yet to conjure up anything overly complex, but even this should serve him well in an effort to scout ahead and gain more information about the creatures he must face. And so he beckons it go as he follows behind, scanning his surroundings for anything amiss. The air itself seems troubled, tense with vibrations. There's something distinctly wrong about it, yet he cannot pinpoint the exact source of it all.]
Strange...
[His voice is no louder than a whisper, but his steps slow and he looks a bit deeper, reaching out to the very edges of his perception where something, something flickers at the outermost edge.]
[Wait. Behind...?]
[He whirls then, taking on a defensive stance as he raises his weapon aloft, already summoning forth the aether he requires for his spell. Only then does he hear a monstrous rumble from an entirely different direction.]
--What?!
[The lighting of the first area of Akedemia Anyder- a large lecture hall- is cut. Therefore it is silent and it is dark with naught but the dim lighting of varying (undisturbed) aquatic environments to guide him.
Most would be ill at ease in such an environment. Most would be startled by the tendency of varying implements from a hastily abandoned lecture- tools, instruments of measurement, models, and everything in between- to cast shadow against the light of the aquariums- to give an indication of danger where there is not- but not him.
He has his eyes, yes. But he uses them differently to most. his sight rarely focused on the material or the tangible, so the shadows, the flickering light is simply not perceived, and thus his imagination does not play tricks on him.
He keeps moving- down unto the area where Mitron themselves would deliver their lecture unto their Words, to the side and down a narrow corridor, to a small area where Mitron would likely call a small office. Ah, another small corridor and-]
--Uwah!
[Oh, that was an unseemly sound. But he's collided with Hades. The aether of him, and the spell he is so close to completing (and unleashing on him!) is all but blinding, making said collision a foregone conclusion, really. But then it fades, it vanishes, the other boy's aether distinctly darkens and-
That rumbling.
Immediately, he turns around- to see a new passageway, beyond a platform surrounded with water, open.]
...Yes, I know. You're furious. But I could not let you go alone.
Most would be ill at ease in such an environment. Most would be startled by the tendency of varying implements from a hastily abandoned lecture- tools, instruments of measurement, models, and everything in between- to cast shadow against the light of the aquariums- to give an indication of danger where there is not- but not him.
He has his eyes, yes. But he uses them differently to most. his sight rarely focused on the material or the tangible, so the shadows, the flickering light is simply not perceived, and thus his imagination does not play tricks on him.
He keeps moving- down unto the area where Mitron themselves would deliver their lecture unto their Words, to the side and down a narrow corridor, to a small area where Mitron would likely call a small office. Ah, another small corridor and-]
--Uwah!
[Oh, that was an unseemly sound. But he's collided with Hades. The aether of him, and the spell he is so close to completing (and unleashing on him!) is all but blinding, making said collision a foregone conclusion, really. But then it fades, it vanishes, the other boy's aether distinctly darkens and-
That rumbling.
Immediately, he turns around- to see a new passageway, beyond a platform surrounded with water, open.]
...Yes, I know. You're furious. But I could not let you go alone.
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